Thoracentesis
Formal Definition
Needle aspiration of fluid from the pleural space, performed for diagnosis or symptom relief.
How It's Used on the Ward
"Tap the effusion" or "do a thoracentesis" — same procedure.
Example
""Right-sided effusion is large enough to tap. Let's do a thoracentesis at bedside with ultrasound — send the fluid for cell count, culture, protein, and LDH.""
Clinical Context
Send pleural fluid for Light's criteria to determine exudate vs transudate. If the patient is symptomatic (SOB), draining even a small amount can provide significant relief.
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